Safety apparel has come a long way from the traditional fluorescent orange or yellow. Today, safety products range from bright colored vests to reflective t-shirts, and the options are endless. However, one color that has been making waves in the safety apparel industry is high vis blue. This color has been gaining popularity, especially in industries that require high visibility gear. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at high vis blue and why it’s becoming a favorite among safety apparel manufacturers.
What is high vis blue?
High vis blue is a bright shade of blue that is designed to be noticeable in high-visibility situations, hence its name. It is also known as hi-vis blue or safety blue, and it is said to increase visibility in low light conditions. The fluorescent pigment in the dye reflects light and enhances visibility, making it an ideal choice for safety apparel.
Why is High Visibility Apparel Important?
The High Visibility Apparel standard was created to establish minimum baseline visibility requirements for workers at high risk of vehicular accidents. The standard outlines specific requirements for clothing, including background clothing colors, retro-reflective materials, and the amount of visible area. This standard was created to reduce injuries and fatalities related to traffic incidents.
High visibility clothing ensures that workers are visible to motorists and equipment operators in different low light conditions, including dawn, dusk, and night-time. It is a vital piece of protective equipment for workers in industries such as construction, transportation, and emergency services. Safety gear that is visible from different angles helps decrease the risk of accidents by providing better visibility for those around you.
Advantages of high vis blue
While the traditional fluorescent green, yellow or orange colors have been the norm for safety apparel, high vis blue is fast becoming a popular alternative. The color has some advantages that make it an ideal choice for hard-wearing, high visibility clothing.
Ease of Visibility
High vis blue is an ideal choice for safety gear because it offers excellent visibility in low light conditions. The hue is easily noticeable when worn in specific lighting situations, making it an ideal choice for busy worksites or emergency services.
Temperature Regulation
High vis blue has been found to have a cooling effect on the body when exposed to the sun. During hot weather or when working outdoors, high-vis blue can be an ideal choice for an added layer of protection.
Colorfastness
The dye used in high vis blue clothing is designed to withstand sunlight, heat, and fading. Durability is essential in safety apparel, and the colorfast nature of high vis blue ensures that the clothing stays visible even during long-term use.
Effective Contrast
High vis blue offers excellent contrast against many traditional backgrounds, making it the ideal choice for helping workers “pop” out in low-light situations. This color ensures that workers are noticeable against different backgrounds, decreasing the risk of accidents caused by low visibility.
Conclusion
High vis blue is becoming increasingly popular for use in safety apparel, with its numerous benefits making it an ideal alternative to fluorescent yellow, green, and orange. Employees working in high-risk sectors, such as construction, transportation, or emergency services, require gear that is not only visible but also designed to protect them from accidents. High-vis blue provides the versatility and effectiveness required for keeping workers safe while keeping them visible in low light conditions.
With more manufacturers producing apparel in this color, it is safe to say that the popularity of high vis blue in safety gear will continue to rise. Organizations that invest in safety gear that is visible, durable, and comfortable for their employees stand a better chance of reducing accidents at work. Ultimately, opting for safety gear with high vis blue will be of immense benefit, not just for the employee but for the organization as well.